Exploring the Rich History of Crete with Family

Sun, Sand, and Serenity on Crete's Southern Shores

Today was a day of embracing the natural beauty of Crete, a welcome change of pace after our explorations of ancient ruins. We ventured to the southern coast, eager to discover the famed beaches and lush landscapes I had read so much about. Little did we know, the day would unfold with unexpected twists and delightful surprises.

Our first stop was Skinaria Beach. The drive itself was stunning, winding through the rugged Cretan countryside. The anticipation grew with each turn, and finally, we arrived at a small, secluded cove. The beach wasn't expansive, but it possessed an undeniable charm. The sand was a mix of fine gravel, and the water was crystal clear, inviting us for a swim despite the January chill. While Sophia and Hans-Peter braved the waves, I contented myself with a stroll along the shore, collecting interesting pebbles and shells. The air was crisp, and the sun, though gentle, warmed my face. It was a moment of pure tranquility, a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.


Skinaria Beach in Crete: Escape to a serene coastal paradise with crystal-clear waters and breathtaking natural beauty.
Skinaria Beach, I learned, is known for its excellent snorkeling and diving conditions. The clear waters and rocky seabed create a haven for marine life. I made a mental note to pack our snorkeling gear next time, as I could see Sophia's eyes sparkling with curiosity as she watched a few divers disappear beneath the surface. Perhaps we can explore the underwater world of Skinaria on a future trip.

After our refreshing beach interlude, our stomachs started to rumble. It was time for breakfast, and according to our itinerary, Marilena Restaurant was the place to be. A short drive later, we arrived in Elounda, a picturesque town on Crete's northeastern coast. Marilena Restaurant exuded a warm and inviting atmosphere. We chose a table in their garden, surrounded by grapevines and the gentle sea breeze. I decided to try the local mezze. The food was superb, a true taste of Greece, so delicious and fresh. Hans-Peter enjoyed grilled meats and Sophia had seafood. The staff were incredibly welcoming, making us feel like honored guests. It was the perfect start to our day, filling us with energy for our next adventure.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine with stunning coastal views at Marilena Restaurant in Schisma Eloundas.
With our bellies full and spirits high, we set our sights on Preveli Palm Forest. The drive took us through winding mountain roads, offering breathtaking views of the Cretan landscape. As we descended towards the coast, the anticipation grew. I had seen pictures of Preveli, but nothing could have prepared me for the real thing. The sight of the lush palm forest nestled at the mouth of a gorge, where the river meets the sea, was simply breathtaking.


Explore the mesmerizing Preveli Palm Forest, a tropical paradise on Crete's southern coast, where nature meets tranquility and adventure awaits.
The walk down to the beach was an adventure in itself. The path was steep and rocky, testing our endurance, but the views along the way were more than worth the effort. Sophia, ever the energetic explorer, skipped ahead, eager to reach the bottom. Hans-Peter and I followed at a more leisurely pace, taking in the stunning scenery.

As we reached the bottom, we were greeted by the sight of the Preveli Palm Forest in all its glory. The contrast between the lush green palms, the turquoise river, and the deep blue sea was mesmerizing. It felt like stepping into a tropical oasis, a world away from the wintery landscapes of Leipzig. We spent hours exploring the forest, wading through the cool river, and relaxing on the sandy beach. Sophia, of course, couldn't resist a swim in the sea, while Hans-Peter and I enjoyed the scenery.

Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.

The Preveli Palm Forest has a fascinating history. In 2010, a devastating fire swept through the area, destroying much of the forest. However, thanks to the resilience of nature and the efforts of conservationists, the forest has made a remarkable recovery. It's a testament to the power of nature to regenerate and thrive, even in the face of adversity.

As the sun began to dip towards the horizon, we reluctantly started our ascent back up the gorge. The climb was challenging, but we were rewarded with even more stunning views. We paused frequently to catch our breath and soak in the beauty around us. Sophia, despite her earlier energy, was starting to feel the effects of the day's adventures, so we took our time, encouraging her with stories of ancient Greek heroes and mythical creatures.

By the time we reached the top, we were all exhausted but exhilarated. We had experienced something truly special, a day of natural beauty, adventure, and family bonding. But the day was not over yet.

Our itinerary led us to PATSAS AGNOS for lunch, a traditional cooking restaurant. After our hike, we were all starving. We were ready to taste authentic Cretan cuisine. The restaurant was bustling with locals, a sure sign of good food. We were not disappointed. The food was hearty, flavorful, and cooked with love. I tried the Moussaka and it was delicious. Hans-Peter had the lamb and Sophia had some fish.


Experience authentic Greek flavors at Patsas Agnos in Chania - where traditional cooking meets warm hospitality.
As the evening approached, we made our way to Chania for dinner at Salis. We were looking forward to a more refined dining experience. Salis is known for its modern take on traditional Cretan cuisine, and it certainly lived up to its reputation. The restaurant was beautifully decorated, and the ambiance was sophisticated yet welcoming. The service was impeccable, and the food was exquisite. I savored every bite of my deconstructed pastitsio, while Hans-Peter raved about the grilled octopus. Sophia, surprisingly, opted for the truffle pasta, a dish that even this picky eater couldn't resist.


Discover exceptional dining at Salis in Chania - where modern European cuisine meets authentic Greek flavors amid stunning waterfront views.
To cap off our day, we decided to indulge in a nightcap at the Peacock Tail Bar in Chania. The bar was known for its extensive cocktail list and skilled bartenders. The atmosphere was lively and fun, the perfect way to end our day of exploring. I enjoyed a glass of local wine, while Hans-Peter sampled one of the bar's signature cocktails. Sophia, of course, stuck to sparkling water, but she enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere and the lively music.


Discover an unforgettable nightlife experience at Peacock Tail Bar in Chania, where every cocktail is a masterpiece and every night is a celebration of flavor.
As we drove back to our accommodation, I reflected on the day's adventures. We had experienced the best of Crete's natural beauty, from the secluded shores of Skinaria Beach to the lush landscapes of Preveli Palm Forest. We had savored the flavors of Crete, from the traditional dishes at PATSAS AGNOS to the modern cuisine at Salis. And we had enjoyed the vibrant nightlife of Chania, sipping cocktails at the Peacock Tail Bar. It was a day of unexpected delights, a day that will forever be etched in our memories.

Tomorrow, we plan to delve deeper into Crete's cultural heritage with a visit to the Lychnostatis Open Air Museum. I am eager to learn more about the island's traditional way of life and explore the exhibits showcasing Cretan folklore and crafts. We also intend to visit Aposelemis Wildlife Refuge, hoping to spot some of the local wildlife. I'm sure tomorrow will be another day filled with new discoveries and unforgettable experiences.

I must remember to buy Sophia a souvenir from To Kaniski. It is always nice to bring a little something back from our travels.

Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.

Until tomorrow!